A prospective student investigates seven fundamental American principles.

The American principles encompass a collection of ideas that students must comprehend in order to cultivate autonomy in their thinking and actions within American society. These principles serve as the bedrock of American civic life, informing the nation's political and social system, and delineating to the global community the essence of being "American." Throughout history, these principles have played a pivotal role in shaping the country's trajectory and forging its unique identity.

These principles are enshrined within significant texts such as the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. They were articulated through the words of Emma Lazarus, which are inscribed on the Statue of Liberty: "Grant me your exhausted, your impoverished, your huddled masses yearning to breathe freely." Furthermore, they lie at the core of Martin Luther King Jr. 's vision, constituting the "promissory note" bequeathed to all individuals, ensuring that every person, regardless of race, is assured the inherent rights of life, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness.

This combination of concepts is uniquely American. Applied to individuals it includes:

Individualism is demonstrated through the principles of self-ownership, agency, self-interest, personal growth, and responsibility. Liberty is exemplified by the respect for free speech, religious liberty, a free and independent press, and the protection of property. Egalitarianism is displayed through the promotion of legal equality, diversity, equal opportunity, and social and economic mobility. Entrepreneurship is celebrated through the encouragement of innovation, providing "second chances," and the pursuit of happiness.

For a society to prosper, it is essential that individuals not only act independently but also collaborate. These concepts are crucial for citizens to actively participate in the common good of the community through its institutions.

Governance is exemplified by the principles of limited government, checks and balances, the separation of powers, and federalism.

Trade is demonstrated through the recognition of commerce, the benefits derived from trade, the creation of value, and an economic mindset.

Civic Engagement is showcased through voluntary associations, a robust civil society, active citizenship, and a philanthropic attitude.

The incorporation of American principles into social studies courses such as Government, Economics, and United States history is easily achievable and explicit. However, the extent to which these principles have been fully realized remains incomplete. The history of America, like any other historical account, is marked by both successes and failures in the conception and implementation of American principles, both in theory and in practice.

American principles can serve as a perspective through which students acquire knowledge of world history. The American Founders perceived themselves as guardians of a framework of English freedoms that they had received as an inheritance, while simultaneously integrating the concepts of the European Enlightenment into a novel and distinctive system. They extensively examined the civilizations of Ancient Greece and Rome, seeking instances—both favorable and unfavorable—of constructing enduring and liberated establishments. It is imperative for students to acknowledge this historical backdrop and recognize its potential in comprehending the present challenges that are unsettling our civic existence.

The application of American principles to the study and evaluation of civilizations beyond the scope of Western civilization can prove to be beneficial. It is imperative for students to reflect upon their personal connection to these principles and subsequently pose the following question to themselves:

Are there instances in which American principles have been more effectively implemented outside of the United States? How should these instances be assessed?

What alternatives exist to a society founded on American principles? How do civilizations organized around these alternatives compare? What factors have contributed to their differences? Are these differences desirable? Who are the beneficiaries and the disadvantaged under alternative systems of principles?

In the present day, these inquiries hold great significance. As stated by Alexander Hamilton in Federalist #1, it remains uncertain whether societies can establish good governance through deliberate thought and choice, or if we are destined to rely on chance and coercion. Now more than ever, we require a new generation of young individuals who will earnestly embrace their duty to think independently and act constructively. By comprehending and evaluating American principles, we believe they will be equipped to confront this challenge.